hands and feet

Thousands of years ago in Egypt and China a healing technique using the hands in reflex areas was used. It was introduced to the US in 1913 by Dr. William Fitzgerald, an ear, nose and throat specialist, and Dr. Edwin Bowers. Eunice Ingham, a nurse and physiotherapist, modified the technique in the 1930s and 1940s, which is now called “zone therapy” and is the main technique used today in the US. People who practice reflexology must be certified according to the laws of their state. In Ohio, the certification for reflexology is the same as a person practicing massage.

Reflexology is an alternative medicine, which a person applies pressure to specific areas of the feet, hands or ears using thumb, finger and hand techniques. It is not used to diagnose or cure health disorders. The philosophy behind reflexology is that the hands & feet mirror all the organs, glands & parts of the body. The pressure prompts change to the related part of the body and helps stimulate healing to that area. It is similar to acupuncture, but no needles are used.

The major benefit of reflexology is the reduction of stress because the hands and feet help set the tension level for the rest of the body. As the hands and feet relax during a reflexology treatment, the rest of the body relaxes as well. Therefore, any stress related conditions like headaches, migraines, constipation, sleep issues, etc. improve after a treatment.

Other benefits include the following:

Reduces many pains/ills in the body

Increases energy and motivation

Improves circulation and digestion

Enhances mental clarity and focus

Increases recovery time after surgery and cancer treatments

Helps with detoxification of the body

Encourages overall healing within the body

If you have a stressful job, currently feeling stress in your personal life or both, reflexology will help. Research has shown that many health issues begin with stress. By having regular reflexology sessions during stressful times in your life, your body will handle the stress better because it brings your body back into balance and helps the body heal itself.

Seeds of Wellness offers reflexology once a month. Call Seeds of Wellness or go to our News webpage to learn more. To learn more about our regular services, please see our Services webpage.